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Our family law attorneys have helped hundreds of families get through difficult times. Don't take our word for it, read testimonials from our past clients to get an idea of how we can help your family get through this difficult time.

“Molly and her staff supported me completely through a drawn out divorce. My ex and his lawyer did everything they could to bleed me dry and drag the proceedings out. Molly is extremely compassionate and professional. I highly recommend her.”

Molly is rated AV - the highest possible rating- by her peers through the Martindale and Hubble rating process and has been recognized as a Superb Family Law attorney and Client's Choice 2012 by Avvo.com.

Molly has also been named by Seattle Met Magazine as one of Seattle's top family law attorneys.

Tatyana received her B.S., cum laude from the University of Washington in 1999 and her J.D. from the University of Washington School of Law in 2002. Washington Law & Politics magazine has selected Tatyana as a "Rising Star" for four consecutive years, from 2009 through 2012. Tatyana practices in the areas of Family Law and Employment Law.

Stacey Smythe has over 24 years of experience in representing Northwest clients in cases ranging from divorce (amicable and high-conflict), modifications, child custody, paternity, child support and domestic violence. Additionally I have experience to provide counsel in drafting Wills, Complete Estate Planning consultation and Probate Administration.

The perpetrators of domestic violence are often vilified – and sometimes with good reason. But the origins of domestic abuse can be complex, and in some cases the person who has engaged in abusive behavior needs treatment as much as those he or she abuses. One strong example of this is veterans who engage in domestic abuse after returning from active duty in the military.

The Connection Between Veterans and Domestic Violence

According to the Department of Veterans Affairs, veterans are two to three times more likely to batter their wives and child – but why? Experts say that the stress and trauma of combat and active duty overseas can oftentimes result in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), a mental health condition that can be tied with depression, anxiety, sleep disturbances, behavioral chances, and substance abuse issues. PTSD can also lead sufferers to lose their jobs or remain unable to work – two issues that can lead to even more stress and frustration.

At the same time, thousands of military personnel are returning home with service-related traumatic brain injuries. These injures can result in behavioral problems, depression, anxiety, sudden aggression, personality changes, and other issues that can lead to domestic abuse.

Treatment and Prevention

It is important to understand that being a veteran – or suffering from PTSD or a traumatic brain injury – is absolutely no excuse for domestic violence. The best thing that we can do with the information we have about veterans and domestic violence is to prevent these issues before they begin by making certain that veterans receive the medical care they need when they return home from war. The least we can do is make sure that veterans who face domestic violence charges realize that they are facing a service-related medical issue and get help.

Families are encouraged to work together with veterans groups, community groups, local police, and healthcare providers to protect families of veterans and help veterans themselves get healthy after service.

A Bellevue Domestic Violence Attorney Can Help

Domestic violence is an extremely serious issue, no matter what the cause. However, if your Washington domestic violence case involved a veteran, PTSD, or a traumatic brain injury, you may wish for the assistance of an experienced family law attorney. Call our Bellevue law office today to schedule a private consultation at 425-460-0550.

Molly B. Kenny's Bellevue family law office is conveniently located on Lake Bellevue Drive, making it easily accessible to those in the greater Seattle area. Our divorce and child custody lawyers help men and women get the information, guidance, and compassionate representation they need.